Helpful Tips for De-Cluttering a Messy Closet

I de-clutter my closet every season!

The de-clutter process hangs over my head as I look toward spring. Didn’t I just go through a major closet clean-out? Yes, but as soon as the last clean-out was completed, things began to accumulate again. I like to shop, more than I should. Also, I am deeply attached to my wardrobe that I worked so hard to curate. However, I know it’s time to weed out the things that no longer work for me.

Although I don’t enjoy this process, I always feel relief when it’s finished. Having space in the closet feels like I have space to breathe. Right now, I feel constricted when I go to my closet, like there isn’t space for one more item. It’s somewhat claustrophobic.

The last time I purged and organized the closet, I moved my things back in after a master closet renovation. That clean-out was successful enough that I started a Poshmark closet to resell the better items! Today, I’m happy to share some closet clean-out tips (and products!) with you to make your own process easier.

Tip 1: Before you de-clutter, start with a clean slate

Move everything out of the space that you are de-cluttering. For the closet, I recommend taking all items out. If that is too large of a job to finish in one session, take the items from one hanging rod or one shelf, and focus on only that part of the closet. Beginning with a clean slate makes you realize how much space you have to work with.

Shown below: A large storage basket gives you a place to store items as you de-clutter! Cotton rope woven basket with woven handles, 22″ diameter 

Tip 2: Clean the space thoroughly!

Have you noticed how many dust bunnies accumulate in closets? We have a lot of lint and dust in closets, and the best time to clean is when it is empty. Take advantage of this opportunity to REALLY give yourself a clean slate.

Pictured below: Shark Ultra Cyclone Pet-Pro Plus handheld cordless vacuum, with attachments.

Tip 3: Evaluate each item and sort

Ask yourself: Have you worn it this year? Does it still appear in good condition? Does it still fit well? Do you feel positively toward the item? If you answered yes to all of these questions, you should keep it. If there are no’s, it’s up to you to decide: Keep, or Purge. To simplify, skip the Maybe category–you’re just delaying an inevitable decision.

Tip 4: Change out hangers on Keep items (if desired)

While you’re in cleaning mode, consider changing out the hangers to a matching set of new hangers! I did this when I moved my clothes back into the renovated closet, and I have enjoyed the velvet hangers! Not only are they sturdy, my clothing stays on the hangers without sliding. This keeps my clothing looking neater, and helps me to stay organized.

Velvet hangers keep clothes from sliding off–they are equally good for hanging tops or pants!

Tip 5: For shelves, organize using matching storage bins or baskets

One inexpensive thing you can do to raise the luxury level of your closet as you organize is to purchase matching storage containers. I personally like the texture of baskets or woven cloth storage baskets. There are also collapsible fabric bins and baskets that you can fold and store when they aren’t being used. Matching the containers avoids the feeling of mismatch and disorganization.

Fabric storage bins with handles provide a durable, attractive way to organize your closet shelves

Bonus Tip: Consider whether to donate or resell the Purge items

Let me tell you, I had a HUGE pile of items that I decided to purge this fall! When I really looked at the items, most of them had been worn once or twice, and some still had tags attached. I decided to set up a resale shop on Poshmark, which has worked out really nicely as a side revenue stream! The platform is easy to use, items sell well, and the extra $$ is nice. It’s like having a slow-motion garage sale!

If you are interested in checking out Poshmark as a resale platform, please use my referral code when you sign up! (By the way, you don’t need to sell anything at all–you could just shop!)

I included Amazon links to some of my favorite products for organization, to make it easier for you to source the items you need to stay organized. As an Amazon affiliate, I may make a small commission on items that are purchased through my links, at no extra cost to you!

Hillary McAlhany is the owner of Gate City Design. She is a certified professional home stager/redesigner, E-designer & color expert. Although she is based in North Carolina, she offers remote design services outside of the central North Carolina region.